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Blizzard Entertainment and ESL Faceit Group have announced the formation of the Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS), marking a new chapter in Overwatch 2 esports. The agreement outlines a multi-year plan to transform the Overwatch League model into a global circuit with online and in-person events.
Regarding this new partnership, Craig Levine, co-CEO of ESL Faceit Group, stated, “OWCS introduces a new era of Overwatch esports while honoring the traditions and passion built by Overwatch esports. Together with Blizzard Entertainment, EFG is well-positioned to create a truly global experience on the Faceit platform and at DreamHack festivals.”
The OWCS will cover three regions: North America, EMEA, and Asia, each with its own qualifiers and tournaments. ESL Faceit Group will oversee the North America and EMEA circuits, while the Korean esports tournament organizer WDG will handle the Asia region. More information is available on the PlayOverwatch.com website.
The OWCS will culminate in two in-person international events held at EFG’s DreamHack festivals: DreamHack Dallas from May 31 to June 2 and the World Finals at DreamHack Stockholm from November 22-24.
Jared Neuss, executive producer of Overwatch 2, expressed excitement about the partnership, emphasizing the importance of a thriving esports scene for such a competitive game.
OWCS’ grassroots (online) approach
To establish an open and sustainable esports ecosystem, the OWCS will leverage EFG’s Faceit platform, providing a pathway to professionalism for aspiring OWCS players.
While details such as online tournament formats, ticket sales, and prize pools have not yet been revealed, the focus on an online approach contrasts with the Overwatch League’s top-down structure.
Blizzard’s decision to move away from the strictly top-down approach indicates an understanding of the future of Overwatch 2’s competitive community. EFG’s plans coupled with the DreamHack events aim to mitigate the risks of operating live events.
Outsourcing to ESL Faceit Group
It’s worth noting that this partnership reflects a trend of publishers outsourcing their esports programs. By managing many mobile esports ecosystems and path to pro events for various games, ESL Faceit Group has established itself as a key player in this trend.
As the esports landscape continues to evolve, this collaboration is indicative of shifting partnerships and alliances among publishers, tournament organizers, and endemic esports companies.
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